Hiraeth

Chapter Fourteen

The atmosphere had shifted dramatically. The once vibrant sounds of laughter and music had been replaced by the tense clamor of hurried footsteps, urgent whispers, and the clinking of armor as guards prepared for the approaching threat. Sage's heart raced as she, Kade, and Beckett navigated through the throng of panicked guests.

"Stay close," Kade urged, his grip on her arm firm but reassuring. "We need to find a secure location to strategize. If Anton is truly attacking, we'll need every ally we can gather."

"Right," Sage replied, her mind racing. She couldn't shake the thought that the carefree adventure of the night had been snatched away in an instant. They were on the precipice of battle, and she had to keep her wits about her.

They reached the grand hall, where the council members had congregated. The room was filled with tense discussions and a few frantic voices. Sage spotted her mother at the center of it all, her face pale but composed, rallying the nobles and knights.

"Mother!" Sage called, breaking free from Kade's hold. She rushed to her mother's side, determination surging through her. "What's the situation?"

Her mother turned, relief washing over her features. "Sage, thank the stars you're safe. We've received word that Anton's forces are advancing toward the palace. He aims to create chaos during the ball and take advantage of our distraction."

Beckett moved closer, his eyes scanning the crowd. "What's the plan? We can't let them enter the estate."

Kade stepped forward, taking charge. "We need to divide our forces. The knights should take defensive positions at the gates. Sage and I can rally the guests who are willing to fight, and if needed, we can use the ballrooms as makeshift barricades."

"I can help too," Sage interjected, her heart pounding. "I know the layout of this place better than anyone. If we can flank them, we might buy enough time to secure the entrance."

"Agreed," Kade said, pride evident in his eyes. "We'll need your knowledge. Every second counts."

The council erupted into a mix of shouts and frantic plans, but Sage focused on her immediate task. She turned to her mother. "We need to rally our supporters-get them to fight for us."

"Do it," her mother commanded, steeling herself. "We need every able-bodied person who is willing to stand against Anton."

As Sage moved to gather her allies, she felt a familiar presence at her side. Beckett fell into step beside her, his expression grave yet determined. "You know how to inspire them, Sage. You've got this."

"I hope so," she said, taking a deep breath to steady her nerves. "This isn't how I imagined tonight would go."

"Neither did I." he replied, a flicker of vulnerability crossing his face.

"Nobles, friends! We stand on the brink of battle! Anton wishes to divide us, to take our home, but together, we can show him the strength of our unity!"

Her voice rang through the hall, and slowly, heads began to turn. Some nobles hesitated, fear etched on their faces, but others nodded, their expressions shifting from panic to determination.

"Will you stand with us?" she continued, her voice rising above the noise. "Tonight, we protect our home, our families, and our future! Join us!"

Beckett moved to her side, adding his own commanding presence. "Let them see we will not be cowed. Anton's threat will be met with strength. We have fought for this place, and we will fight for it again!"

A murmur of agreement rippled through the crowd, and Sage felt the swell of courage rise within her. It was now or never. She could lead them, she could show them that they had the strength to face this challenge.